S. Korea returns as APEC host: Diplomacy, opportunity, and Gyeongju on the global stage

Welcome to Within The Frame, where we bring the most pressing issues across the globe, I'm Kim Mok-yeon.

For the first time in twenty years, Korea is preparing to host the APEC Summit—this October in the historic city of Gyeongju.

The 32nd summit arrives at a moment of major geopolitical shifts: U.S.-China tensions are deepening, global trade remains volatile, and the Indo-Pacific is fast becoming the epicenter of strategic competition.

With Korea stepping in as chair once again, attention is turning to the country's evolving diplomatic role, the economic gains at stake, and the symbolic power of choosing a smaller, heritage-rich city like Gyeongju as host.

What does this mean for Korea's foreign policy? What new model of diplomacy might emerge—and how could it reshape Korea's regional and global standing?

Joining us now for an exclusive conversation is Shin Bong-kil—former Korean Ambassador to India and the President of the Korean Council on Foreign Relations, who's also a Special Policy Advisor for APEC diplomacy in Gyeongsangbuk-do Province. A big welcome to you.

To start things off, Korea will host the 32nd APEC Summit this October in Gyeongju, marking the first time in 20 years since the 2005 summit in Busan.

What is the diplomatic significance of Korea hosting the event again?

(Compared to 20 years ago, how has Korea's diplomatic capability and standing evolved?)

Moving on to the selection of the host city, Gyeongju was ultimately chosen over competitors like Incheon and Jeju.

As a mid-sized city, what do you think was the rationale behind Gyeongju's selection?

Looking back at 2005, Busan highlighted its large-scale urban infrastructure and administrative capacity.

How should Gyeongju, as this year's host, present a new model for international conferences?

On the economic front, what economic benefits or industrial opportunities can Korea realistically expect to gain from hosting this APEC summit?

Given today's global uncertainties, including the intensifying U.S.-China rivalry and trade tensions, what role should APEC play in addressing these challenges? And what key issues should this year's summit prioritize?

Now turning to foreign policy, President Lee Jae-myung's administration emphasizes pragmatic diplomacy. How can the APEC summit become a pivotal platform to advance this agenda?

(Especially considering possible visits from President Trump and President Xi—how might Korea leverage these to play a mediating role and improve bilateral ties with the U.S. and China?)

Based on your experience as ambassador to India, what kind of strategic diplomatic approach should Korea pursue in the ASEAN and Indo-Pacific regions through the APEC platform?

Given your extensive diplomatic background, we'd like to touch on broader foreign affairs. President Lee has signaled intentions to improve ties with China.

Within the framework of the U.S.-Korea alliance, how can Korea strike a strategic balance in its relationship with China?

Lastly, let's address inter-Korean relations. The Lee administration is showing a strong intent to restore dialogue with the North.

In light of deepening North Korea–Russia ties, what direction should South Korea's North Korea policy take moving forward?